Forestry Expert Bambang Hero Saharjo Sued Over Rp271 Trillion Tin Corruption, Check Out His Profile

Kapanlagi.com - Prof. Bambang Hero Saharjo, a Professor from the Bogor Agricultural Institute (IPB), has become the center of public attention after being reported to the Bangka Belitung Police. This report is related to an astonishing environmental loss calculation, reaching Rp271 trillion, in the tin trading case.

Lawyer Andi Kusuma, who reported Bambang, questioned his competence in calculating state losses. According to Andi, the method used by Bambang, which involves free satellite imagery, is considered inaccurate and irrelevant. He also highlighted that the impact of this report could affect the local economy, even leading to the closure of several companies.

Despite now being involved in controversy, Prof. Bambang was previously well-known for his contributions to various environmental issues. He received the prestigious John Maddox Prize in 2019, further cementing his reputation in this field.

Here is the life journey and the controversy currently surrounding the name Bambang Hero Saharjo, summarized by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Thursday (9/1).

1. The Life Journey of Bambang Hero Saharjo

Bambang Hero Saharjo, an inspiring figure born in Jambi on November 10, 1964, grew up in an atmosphere of simplicity filled with values of honesty and hard work instilled by his parents.

As a child, he was not hesitant to help his family sell ice mambo in between studying. His deep interest in the forestry world emerged when he was in high school, which led him to choose the Faculty of Forestry at IPB and graduate in 1987.

Thanks to a scholarship, his academic journey continued to Kyoto University, Japan, where he earned his master's degree in 1996 and completed his doctoral program in 1999 with a focus on tropical forest resources.

Now, Bambang holds the position of Professor at IPB, guiding hundreds of students from various levels, while actively conducting important research, including studies on greenhouse gas emissions due to peatland fires, supported by leading international institutions such as NASA.

2. Bambang's Dedication to Environmental Law Enforcement

Bambang, a forensic fire expert who has contributed to over 400 forest fire cases in Indonesia, is a behind-the-scenes hero of law enforcement. Through close cooperation with the National Police and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), he uncovered land burning practices by palm oil companies through irrefutable scientific evidence.

Despite facing legal challenges and intimidation, his spirit has never waned in defending the truth. The John Maddox Prize he received in 2019 in London stands as tangible proof of his dedication to combating misunderstandings about forest fires.

In addition, Bambang also plays an active role in providing training to law enforcement officials, strengthening their capacity to handle environmental cases. For him, protecting the environment is not just a duty, but a moral responsibility that must be carried out wholeheartedly.

3. Controversy Over State Loss Calculation of Rp271 Trillion

In the sharp spotlight of the tin trade case in Bangka Belitung, Bambang was tasked with revealing environmental losses due to detrimental mining activities, and the results were shocking: the total loss reached Rp271 trillion, encompassing severe damage in forest and non-forest areas.

However, this report is not without controversy; lawyer Andi Kusuma questioned the methods used by Bambang, including satellite image analysis, as well as the lack of involvement from experts and competence in state finances.

The impact of this report is also felt in the local economy, with many companies forced to close down and workers losing their livelihoods.

Nevertheless, Bambang insists that environmental losses cannot be measured solely from an economic standpoint, but also from the long-term impacts on ecosystems and public health, emphasizing the importance of this calculation to prevent further damage.

4. Achievements and International Recognition

Bambang, an influential academic, has received various awards that reflect his dedication to the environment, including the prestigious John Maddox Prize and the Satyalancana Karya Satya from the Indonesian government for his service as a lecturer.

Not only that, he is also frequently invited as a speaker at international forums and has established collaborations with leading universities in the United States and other international institutions.

His in-depth research on forest fires and their impact on climate change has become one of the significant contributions to the world of science.

Despite facing various challenges, Bambang's spirit to advocate for environmental protection has never faded; for him, the highest award is seeing society increasingly aware of the importance of preserving our planet.

5. Challenges and Hopes for the Future

The case involving Bambang reflects how difficult the struggle of environmental experts is in defending the truth amidst intimidation, legal lawsuits, and threatening political pressure.

However, Bambang's hope lies with the younger generation of Indonesia, whom he believes can continue his struggle. With quality education and the instillation of integrity values, he believes this nation can preserve its natural wealth for the future.

For him, issues like forest fires, environmental destruction, and corruption practices are crimes that must be fought against relentlessly. With strong determination, Bambang is committed to continuing his contributions through research, teaching, and environmental advocacy for a better Earth.

6. Who is Bambang Hero Saharjo?

Bambang Hero Saharjo is a Professor at IPB and a forensic fire expert known for his contributions to environmental cases.

7. Why was Bambang Hero reported to the police?

He was reported regarding the method of calculating environmental losses amounting to Rp271 trillion in the tin trade case.

8. What are Bambang Hero Saharjo's achievements?

He has received the John Maddox Prize 2019 and several other prestigious awards, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to environmental conservation.

9. What method did Bambang use in calculating the losses?

Bambang utilizes advanced satellite image analysis and scientific data to reveal the extent of the losses experienced by our environment.

10. What is the impact of Bambang's report on the economy of Bangka Belitung?

This report has a significant impact on the regional economy, triggering a wave of company closures and increasing unemployment rates among mining workers.

(kpl/rmt)